District 742 held a groundbreaking ceremony for the APEX Athletics Center at Apollo High School on May 5. The new $15 million indoor multipurpose athletic facility is funded through a voter-approved referendum passed in April 2025 and will support student programming and community activities across the district.
The project is seen as an important investment in students’ futures. Superintendent Laurie Putnam said, “This facility will have a lasting impact on students. It means better opportunities to compete, practice and be part of a team. For future students, it represents a continued investment in their success and well-being. It will bring students together, build pride in our schools and create experiences that stay with them long after graduation. This is about building something that supports generations of students to come.”
Apollo Principal Justin Skaalerud also commented on the significance of the new center for both school spirit and future growth: “This facility will build pride across our school community. It gives our students a place to represent Apollo with confidence and brings our community together. It also opens the door for future opportunities, allowing us to continue growing programs and providing great experiences.”
The APEX Athletics Center has been designed as a shared resource for both districtwide student use and broader community activities, aiming to strengthen connections throughout St. Cloud Area School District 742.
The event brought together current and past board members who contributed to passing the referendum, as well as members of the Superintendent Advisory Council.
Putnam said she hopes this new space will continue supporting generations of students.
